At South Carolina Hunters for the Hungry, we’ve always known venison is more than just a meal—it’s one of the healthiest proteins available. Thanks to hunters across our state, donated deer provide thousands of servings of lean, nutrient-rich venison each year to families in need. But beyond filling plates, venison delivers real health benefits.
Here are three reasons venison is such a powerful food source:
1. Lean & Heart-Healthy Protein
Venison is naturally lower in fat and calories compared to beef, pork, or lamb. According to Penn State Extension, a three-ounce serving of venison provides about 134 calories and only 3 grams of fat, while still delivering over 26 grams of protein. That makes it an ideal choice for building and repairing muscle without the excess cholesterol often found in other red meats (Penn State Extension).
2. Packed with Essential Nutrients
Venison is loaded with key vitamins and minerals that support overall health. WebMD notes that venison is an excellent source of iron, which helps prevent anemia, and it also delivers zinc to strengthen the immune system. B vitamins—especially B6 and B12—are abundant in venison, supporting energy levels and healthy brain function (WebMD, Cook Venison).
3. All-Natural & Free-Range
Unlike most store-bought meat, venison comes directly from free-ranging deer that forage naturally. This means no hormones, antibiotics, or additives—just pure, all-natural protein. Research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health also shows that wild venison tends to contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), compounds linked to reduced inflammation and better heart health (PMC).
More Than a Meal: Fighting Hunger in South Carolina
When hunters donate deer through South Carolina Hunters for the Hungry, they’re not only providing food—they’re providing healthy food. Since our founding, we’ve distributed over 1.3 million pounds of venison to food banks, pantries, and organizations serving families across the state. Each pound of venison delivered is another step toward fighting hunger with one of nature’s best resources.
Together, we’re proving that venison is more than just a wild game tradition—it’s a solution.
References:
Penn State Extension – Venison: Is It for You?
https://extension.psu.edu/venison-is-it-for-you
WebMD – Health Benefits of Deer Meat
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-deer-meat
PubMed Central – Game Meat Consumption: Health and Safety Aspects
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7278821/
Cook Venison – Health Benefits of Venison
https://cookvenison.com/health-benefits-of-venison/
